Sightseeing Entry

St Paul’s Church Hall, Canterbury, CT1 1NH

ALL welcome – rusty singers included!

Turn up for a cuppa and a biscuit, followed by sociable singing to put a smile on your face, led by Jamie Rogers, Assistant Director of Music, and our Choral Scholars.

Please join us between 14:00-15:00 on the following Mondays:

Please note, there will be no FRIENDly Singing in July and August 

• 8 September

FURTHER DATES FOR 2026 TO BE ANNOUNCED

Free to attend but donations welcomed.

All welcome. No need to book.

Organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Charity No 1210093).

Until 31 August 2025

This summer, we will be hosting the breathtaking installation moon landing; a duo work created by British textile artist and designer of woven textiles, Margo Selby, in collaboration with award-winning composer, Helen Caddick.

An immersive artwork comprising a 16-metre hand-woven textile by Margo Selby, and an original musical piece scored for strings by Helen Caddick, inspired by the story of the women who wove the integrated circuits and memory cores which enabled the moon landing.

Supported by a grant from The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Charity No. 1210093).

*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.

WEEKLY on a Thursday (please check dates), 16:30-17:00

Join us after visiting hours for a short guided pilgrimage around the Cathedral, stopping at places of significance for reflection and prayer.

Torin Brown, Pilgrim Officer, will lead a pilgrimage around the outside of the Cathedral, visiting places of symbolism and structures of meaning, to reflect upon our lives and our world. It is a pilgrimage of prayerful intent.

We will walk in silence between reflections of meaning, in an exercise of mindfulness, and in preparation for the evening service.

All are welcome to join us afterwards for our evening service at 17:30, followed by a blessing for those who wish to attend.

Free to attend; but donations gratefully received.

Please join us for our monthly film screenings in the Cathedral Lodge AV Room.

Films start at 14:00.

14 September The Boy And The Heron (2023) | 12

12 October Pan's Labyrinth (2006) | 15

9 November The Life and Death of Colonel Blimp (1943) | U

14 December Past Lives (2023) | 12

11 January 2026 EO (2022) | 15

The first rule of Film Club, is that there is no charge for Film Club...(but any donations are gratefully received!)

Dates in August - December

Join us for our step-free tours, delivered at a gentle pace, in a smaller group; split into two parts, with a comport break.

Hear the story of Thomas Becket, our most famous Archbishop, and see the site of his murder and feast your eyes on some of our oldest stained glass windows.

Explore the Quire and a ‘Cadaver tomb’, contrast medieval and dramatic modern windows and find out why there is a cannonball in an Archbishop’s tomb!

Dates:

• Thursday 21 August, between 14:15-16:00
• Thursdays 4 & 18 September, between 14:15-16:00
• Thursdays 2, 16 & 30 October, between 14:15-16:00
• Thursdays 13 & 27 November, between 14:15-16:00
• Thursday 11 December, between 14:15-16:00

£5 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.

Mondays, during choir term time (see dates), 12:30-13:00 in the Crypt

The worship of Taizé is based on simple repetitive chants, the reading of scripture and silence.

All are welcome to come and experience this way of praying as we connect with God and one another through sound and silence.

- Taizé Lunchtime Prayer will return in September -

In person only.

This event is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.

Dates in August - November (New dates added regularly)

Discover the strong bond that Canterbury Cathedral has with the United States.

This is the story of centuries of friendship across the Atlantic.

Dates:

• Friday 22 August, 11:15-12:30
• Labor Day: Mon 1 September, 11:15-12:30
• Patriots’ Day: Thurs 11 September, 11:15-12:30
• Indigenous Peoples’ Day: Mon 13 October, 11:15-12:30
• Fri 24 October, 11:15-12:30
• Veterans Day: Tues 11 November, 11:15-12:30
• Thanksgiving: Thurs 27 November, 11:15-12:30

£5 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.

Dates in August - September

The Corona Chapel was built in the 12th century to house the crown - ‘corona’ in Latin - of St Thomas Becket’s skull, which had been sliced off during his murder and was revered as a saintly relic.

Explore the Chapel, usually closed to the public, before climbing the 95 steps to the top of the Corona Tower itself!

Dates:

• Fridays 15, 22 & 29 August, 14:15-15:15
• Wednesdays 6, 13, 20 & 27 August, 14:15-15:15
• Wednesdays 3 & 10 September, 14:15-15:15
• Fridays 5 & 12 September, 14:15-15:15

£12 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.

This is a popular tour; pre-booking suggested. Over 16s only.

Read full tour information and restrictions before booking.

Dates in September - December

Our Cathedral Library collection includes books from the early decades of printing onwards, including books from some of the earliest European printing presses.

Join a guided tour to learn more about the Library and to explore some of the collection close-up.

Dates:

• Thursday 25 September, 14:00-14:45
• Thursday 9 October, 14:00-14:45
• Thursday 13 November, 14:00-14:45
• Thursday 4 December, 14:00-14:45

£8 per person. Cathedral admission not included.

Pre-booking required. Not suitable for under 12s.

Dates in August - October

Discover the Cathedral when it is closed to the public, on an exclusive guided tour taken ‘out of hours’ led by one of our expert guides, who will share many fascinating stories with you.

This tour is perfect for history lovers and those seeking a unique way to enjoy the Cathedral - book your exclusive evening tour now and look forward to an truly special experience.

Dates:

• Fri 22 August, 18:30-20:00
• Fri 12 September, 18:30-20:00
• Fri 3 October, 18:30-20:00

£40 per person. Pre-booking required.

Saturday 23 & Sunday 24 August, 14:00-15:00

Walk the picturesque Precincts and discover traces of the medieval monks of Christ Church Priory, once on this site.

Today, evidence of the lives of the monks can be found in the ruins dotted around the Precincts, the Great Cloister and Chapter House, the repurposed buildings and gardens.

Learn about the lives of the monks, the buildings they used and the history of the medieval Herbarium.

Dates:

• Tuesdays 19 & 26 August 11:15-12:30

£5 per person, plus Cathedral admission charge.

Please note, this tour will take place outside and involve walking on uneven surfaces in varying weather.

The First Public Theology Lecture in the New Series of Michael Ramsey Events

Speaker: Revd Prof Jonathan Arnold, Michael Ramsey Chair of Faith, Culture and the Arts, Institute of Cultural and Creative Industries, University of Kent

This lecture is the first in an annual series of Michael Ramsey lectures and events, with guest speakers prominent in the fields of theology, the arts, culture and social action.

followed by Three-course Dinner

Friday 29 August, 18:20-21:30

To create a very special and memorable evening, we have combined our private ‘out of hours’ evening guided tour of Canterbury Cathedral, led by one of our knowledgeable guides, with an exclusive three-course à la carte dinner in our Refectory Restaurant.

£70 per person

All events at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge have limited availability and must be pre-booked.
Full pre-payment will be taken at the time of booking and is non-refundable, unless we are able to re-sell places booked.

Saturday 30 August, 13:00-15:00

Pack your picnics and join Ratty, Mole, Badger, and the fantastically irrepressible Toad as they embark on the adventure of a lifetime culminating in a colourful battle to save Toad Hall from the mischievous weasels!

Multi-award nominated Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark style and energy to the riverbank with heaps of interaction, stunning costumes, toe-tapping music, and larger-than-life characters,

A TOAD-ally terrific treat whether you’re 4 or 104!

Recommended age: 4+

Mondays 1 & 8 September - 13:00, 14:00 & 15:00

Explore the Corona Chapel, usually closed to the public, discover the tombs of Cardinal Reginald Pole and Archbishop Temple, and view the wonderful stained glass windows in more detail, before climbing the 95 steps to the top of the Corona Tower itself to experience amazing views across the city in all directions.

This tour offers a unique opportunity to see the city of Canterbury differently – as well as some hidden stone carvings atop the tower.

Followed by a full afternoon tea, in the Refectory Restaurant.

£40 per person

All events at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge have limited availability and must be pre-booked.
Full pre-payment will be taken at the time of booking and is non-refundable, unless we are able to re-sell places booked.

Friday 5 September 2025

Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of the 1920s as The Great Gatsby Ball comes to Canterbury Cathedral!

ON SALE NOW!

Step into the style and glamour of the 1920s at The Gatsby Ball! This unforgettable evening brings the Roaring Twenties to life in an enchanting, historic setting. Don your finest flapper dresses, dapper suits, and pearls as we transport you back to the Jazz Age with a night filled with elegance, style, and sophistication.

What to Expect:

• 1920's Fashion
• Live Swing Band
• Stunning Architecture
• The Glitz & Glamour of the Gatsby World!

Enjoy the sounds of a live swing band, playing the biggest hits of modern times with an old school Jazz twist!

Guaranteed to get you on your feet and dancing like it’s 1925. The Gatsby Ball is the ultimate way to experience the golden age of jazz and glamour.

Saturday 6 September, 10:30-12:15

Whether your child is starting school for the first time or transitioning into their next school year, this event is a truly unique and unforgettable experience for all the family!

Create your own personalized bookmark - an absolute ‘Back to School’ essential - and participate in a fun musical workshop with members of the Cathedral’s Music Department, followed by a joyful talk and blessing.

All welcome.

Free to attend. Booking is preferred, but not essential.

All children attending the event will also be given a special Canterbury Cathedral bag tag to take away with them - kindly sponsored by The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Charity No. 1210093).

Ten sessions between 9 September - 18 November
on Tuesdays, 20:00-21:00 GMT via Zoom

Among the mystics, St Teresa of Avila holds a unique position as a witness to divine realities. Her common sense, humour, and penchant for everyday images liven her writings; but she is above all remarkable for her analytical abilities in proving the mystery of God’s workings in the soul.

Join Canon Emma online to reflect and discuss this text.

The group is free, but donations are gratefully received.

Booking essential - Book your space to be sent a Zoom link.

Monday 15 September, 10:15-17:00

Canterbury Cathedral holds a fascinating collection of textiles. These include some fabric fragments and items of church dress dating from medieval times.

This day will provide a unique opportunity to find out from our experts more about the history of these items and how they are used and cared for.

Tea, coffee and pastries will be available upon arrival; with a two-course lunch in between; and tea, coffee and cake to finish the day - all included.

£75 per person

All events at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge have limited availability and must be pre-booked.
Full pre-payment will be taken at the time of booking and is non-refundable, unless we are able to re-sell places booked.

Between 12 - 21 September

Every September, thousands of volunteers across England organise events to celebrate the country’s fantastic history and culture. It’s your chance to see hidden places and try out new experiences – all of which are FREE to explore.

Discover FREE Heritage Open Day events at Canterbury Cathedral!

These events are all free to attend, but pre-booking is required, as spaces are limited.

Friday 19 September, 18:30-19:30 in the Campanile Garden

Join us after Evensong for a late-summer evening of cocktails and canapés whilst we are entertained by some of our talented Cathedral musicians, led by Caroline McCartney.

We shall enjoy a mixed medley of classical and folk music in the stunning garden of The Lodge which overlooks our Cathedral.

£30 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £35 non-members. Includes tea and coffee.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

Tues 23 – Sat 27 September

slots between 19:00-21:00

*TICKETS NOW ON SALE*

For five nights in September - in the year of the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day - Canterbury Cathedral will be illuminated with the immersive sound and light installation Poppy Fields by Luxmuralis, commemorating the First and Second World Wars.

A poignant and moving sound and light show taking visitors on an immersive journey through light and sound, transforming spaces and creating a walking curated experience amongst the artworks projected onto amazing architecture.

The installations reflect on the end of WW1 and WW2, but more importantly look at the hopes and wishes for peace in our world.

Image: Luxmuralis's Poppy Fields at Winchester Cathedral © Luxmuralis

Tuesday 23 September, 10:30-11:30 in the Kentish Barn

Melanie Gibson-Barton returns to give us insight into another culture, encompassing the history and geography of this European landmark. Attendees will also learn about the modern aspects of the attractive city of Bruges.

For audience members that have visited Bruges, the talk will bring back memories, and will show that there is much more to see in this city to inspire a return visit to explore in more depth.

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

Friday 29 September, 14:30-16:30 in the AV Room

Join us for a fascinating talk by Cressida Williams, Archives and Library Manager, about the potted history of the Cathedral, told through some of the fascinating items from its collections.

Followed by a full afternoon tea, in the Refectory Restaurant.

£27 per person

All events at Canterbury Cathedral Lodge have limited availability and must be pre-booked.
Full pre-payment will be taken at the time of booking and is non-refundable, unless we are able to re-sell places booked.

Tuesday 7 October, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium

Standing in the Nave of a cathedral, it is hard not to wonder how ordinary human beings could have created sky-scraping, dizzyingly high buildings on which even the top-most parts were delicately decorated, in an age before even the simplest of power tools.

Speaker Imogen Corrigan will tell us the story of the men who built the cathedrals of the medieval era: who they were, how they lived and how with the simplest of hand tools they created the astonishing buildings that hundreds of years later still stand as monuments to their ingenuity and skill.

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

Friday 24 & Saturday 25 October 2025

Venue: Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, Canterbury, Kent CT1 2EH

Celebrating craft beer at it’s best, this festival hosted by Time & Tide Brewing is now in it’s second year.

The event takes place in Canterbury Cathedral Lodge, situated within the stunning grounds of Canterbury Cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and less than an hour by train from London.

Time & Tide are shining a spotlight on some of the country’s most exciting breweries, showcasing the best that independent craft beer has to offer. A selection of beers ranging from hoppy IPA’s to sours, low alcohol and imperial stouts will be available, with some wild fermentation options thrown in for good measure.

Delicious street food will also be available (with a focus on quality and local produce).

Tickets: £25 per person

Various events 25 - 31 October

This October half term, challenge your group to a game of mini golf in the magnificent Cathedral Chapter House, and discover 1,400 years of history on a FREE* family tour!

*Included free with a valid Cathedral Admission Ticket, Cathedral Pass or Friends’ Card. Kids go FREE every day! (T&Cs apply); does not apply to group bookings or school visits.

Tuesday 28 October, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium

We’ve all heard of Thomas Becket – or at least the dramatic events at the end of his life and the martyrdom and miracles that came afterward.

Cathedral Guide Maggie Price will speak about the early life and career of the man who will eternally be known as Saint Thomas of Canterbury. This is the first of two talks on Becket.

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

One in our series of informal organ recitals, featuring the Cathedral’s resident organists and guests.

Free and un-ticketed, with a retiring collection.

See recital programme in the monthly Services and Music List

with Jamie Rogers, Assistant Director of Music

Friday 17 October, 18:15 in the Quire

- after 17:30 Evensong

One in our series of informal organ recitals, featuring the Cathedral’s resident organists and guests.

Free and un-ticketed, with a retiring collection.

See recital programme in the monthly Services and Music List.

Tuesday 18 November, 10:30-11:30 in the Clagett Auditorium

Almost every visitor to Canterbury has been told a version of Becket’s murder – even if it is only the nursery rhyme, Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush.

In the second of her talks, Cathedral Guide Maggie Price will explain what the effects of the aftershock of Becket’s demise meant for the church – in Rome as well as England – and also the citizens and Crown. Both immediately and for years after.

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

Monday 24 November, 11:30-12:30 in the Clagett Auditorium

Since 597AD, there have been 105 Archbishops of Canterbury (ABCs) – the first being Saint Augustine.

The Church of England is currently involved in Project 106: the search for the next ABC. But who decides who will become the ArchBishop of Canterbury Designate/Elect?

In this exclusive talk, the Archdeacon of Canterbury, Will Adam, and Dean David will explain the processes that the Church of England and the Office of Crown Appointments have followed throughout 2025, and more.

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).

Festive Lunches
Throughout December (enquire for availability)

FOR GROUPS
Shared Festive Party Nights
Various dates in December
(enquire for availability)

New Year’s Eve Gala
Wednesday 31 December, 18:30 - 01:00

Pre-payment or a deposit will be taken at the time of booking Festive Lunches, Shared Festive Party Nights or New Year's Eve; this is non-refundable.

See full Christmas T&Cs on the Canterbury Cathedral Lodge website.

'Hope'

All are welcome to join us for our traditional services, carol services and special events, child-friendly activities, beautiful trees and decorations - plus the return of the Canterbury Christmas Market to the Precincts!

Our charity partner this Christmas will be Catching Lives (Charity No. 1014868), as we seek to raise the profile of their work, and to raise money as they support homeless people in and around Canterbury.

Saturday 29 November, 10:00-16:00

An opportunity to find space for quiet and reflection, before the countdown to Christmas, aligning with our Advent and Christmas theme for this year - ‘Hope’.

The day will include three talks, accompanied by quiet times in some of the loveliest and least-known Cathedral chapels.

£12 per person; with free Cathedral entry.

Booking essential, as spaces are limited.

Those in receipt of Universal Credit or with refugee status are welcome to attend this quiet day for free (upon verification of status) - enquire via email to book for free.

Saturday 29 November, 10:00-16:00 in the Community Studio

Embroider a beautiful festive robin motif, with Royal School of Needlework tutor, Kathryn Sanders - a new and exclusive design and class, inspired by the original James I Charter issued in 1608.

There will also be an opportunity to visit the Cathedral Archives to enjoy a brief curated viewing of the original Charter; an exquisite illuminated document of historic significance.

This exclusive partnership class is part of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral’s unique association with the Royal School of Needlework, dating back to the 1930s.

- BOOKING OPEN NOW -

The class cost is £175 per student and includes all materials and necessary equipment to complete the project.

Tuesday 2 December, 10:30-11:30 in the Kentish Barn

Brenda Tate-Lovery, a former Open University lecturer, will explore interpretations of Angels and Demons, depicted in art since the earliest times; looking at how different generations of artists have interpreted them, from 5th Century to modern day, in the context of belief and practice.

In the vivid imaginations of artists, we will explore how these spiritual beings have become actors in storytelling, stimulating emotional reactions, from fear to humour.

- BOOKING OPENS SOON -

£10 Friends of Canterbury Cathedral; £15 non-members. Includes tea and coffee on arrival.

This event is organised by and in support of The Friends of Canterbury Cathedral (Registered Charity No 1210093).